The 25th Annual General Assembly (AGA25) of the International Association of Maritime Universities (IAMU) just wrapped up in Chennai, and it’s clear this wasn’t just another conference. Hosted by AMET University, the first time IAMU’s flagship event has landed in India, AGA25 brought together 162 delegates from 93 maritime universities across 42 countries. That’s a serious gathering of brains, and the discussions didn’t just scratch the surface—they dug deep into how disruptive tech and innovation can drive sustainable maritime practices.
The event kicked off with a clear message: the maritime world is at a crossroads, and academia is stepping up to steer the ship. Dr. Shan Hongjiun, Chair of IAMU and President of Dalian Maritime University, set the tone by highlighting IAMU’s role in global maritime cooperation. But the real fireworks came from Shri Shyam Jeganathan, India’s Director General of Shipping. He didn’t just talk about India’s maritime ambitions—he laid out a ₹69,725 crore government package to boost shipbuilding, ship recycling, and green maritime practices. That’s not small change, and it signals a major push for India to become a global maritime leader.
What really stood out was the focus on collaboration. The announcement of a World Maritime Industry Advisory Board is a game-changer. This isn’t just about universities talking to each other—it’s about bridging the gap between academia and industry on a global scale. Imagine maritime universities worldwide working hand-in-hand with shipowners, tech firms, and policymakers to tackle real-world challenges. That’s the kind of synergy that could accelerate innovation and sustainability in the sector.
But it wasn’t all talk. The conference showcased AMET University’s world-class facilities, including the Maersk Centre of Excellence and Maritime Simulation Centre. These aren’t just fancy labs—they’re proving grounds for the next generation of maritime tech and talent. And with over 27,000 alumni in the industry, AMET is already shaping the future of shipping.
The big takeaway? The maritime industry is ripe for disruption, and academia is leading the charge. From digital transformation to green shipping, the ideas discussed at AGA25 aren’t just theoretical—they’re actionable. And with India stepping up as a maritime powerhouse, the stage is set for a new era of global collaboration and innovation. The question now is: who’s ready to turn these ideas into reality?